What to Pack for a Gorilla Trekking Safari

Going on a gorilla trekking safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you would not want to go wrong because you packed the wrong stuff. The trekking experience requires you to hike through thick forests in order to see mountain gorillas. So, here are some things you should bring with you for this amazing Safari.

Clothing – What to wear on a gorilla trekking safari

For a comfortable gorilla trekking safari experience, you will need light breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect you from scratches, insect bites, and sunburns. This includes long-sleeved shirts and long trousers.

Your choice of footwear will also affect your comfort during the trek. I recommend waterproof hiking boots that offer good ankle support. They should also have a rugged sole for traction because it can get muddy and steep along the way. If you can, add a pair of gaiters to keep mud and debris out of your boots.

Also, the weather in the forest is unpredictable so you need to be prepared for unexpected rain showers at any time even during the dry season. A light rain jacket or poncho will keep you dry without adding too much bulk to your pack. Temperatures in the morning and evening and at high altitudes may be really low so a light warm sweater might come in handy too.

Safari Gear

1. Gloves

As you hike through the forest, you will face challenging terrain where you will need extra support to continue. You will find yourself holding onto tree branches and other strong plants for support.  Gloves can be a lifesaver in these situations because they will give you a better grip while protecting your hands against nettles, thorns, and other prickly plants.

2. Daypack

You will need a small, lightweight daypack to carry things like water, snacks, camera gear, and personal items during the trek. It should be large enough to hold all your essentials with compartments and pockets to organize your gear. I would recommend one with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt for distributing weight evenly so that it is comfortable to carry.

3. Camera and Binoculars

A quality camera and extra batteries will ensure you don’t miss a single shot of your moments with the gorillas. Binoculars on the other hand will enhance your viewing experience, especially for observing gorillas that might be further away or hidden in the dense vegetation.

4. Water bottle

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding and may involve several hours of hiking through dense forests and rugged terrain which can quickly lead to dehydration. You should bring reusable water bottles with a capacity of at least 2 liters so that you have an adequate supply of water for your trek.

Travel Essentials for your gorilla trekking safari

Valid Passport and Permits

You will need to present your passport and printed gorilla trekking permits for park entry and identification. You should keep them in a waterproof document pouch or ziplock bag to protect them from moisture and damage during the hike.

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes and other biting insects are common in tropical rainforests and may be carrying diseases like malaria. To protect yourself, you should apply a DEET-based insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing. You can also reapply if needed, especially if you are sweating during the trek.

Sunscreen and Sunglasses

While trekking, you may be exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods. You should shield yourself from the sun’s harsh rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Apply the sunscreen generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands.

You should also consider packing UV-protective sunglasses to reduce glare and eye strain.

The Little Things That Make a Big Difference

There are things that may seem little but they can make your gorilla trekking safari more comfortable. These include:

• A lightweight, quick-dry towel
• A power bank to keep your devices charged
• A light lunch box for mid-trek meals
• A basic first-aid kit with painkillers, diarrhea tablets, and band-aids
• Energy-giving snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Packing Tips during the gorilla trekking safari

• Pack Light: Since you will be carrying your day pack yourself, you will need to pack only the essentials and choose lightweight gear, if possible, to reduce the weight of your backpack.
• Layering is key: The weather in the forest changes from time to time during the day, so dress in layers to stay comfortable during these changes. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid layers as needed, and top it off with a waterproof outer layer for protection against rain and wind.
• Neutral Colored Clothing: When visiting gorillas in their natural habitat, it is important to minimize disturbance on the animals. Avoid bright colors and stick to neutral colors to avoid scaring the gorillas by blending you in with the environment.
• Try your gear before the trek: Trying your gear first helps you fix any problems early, making the trek easier. It also helps you get used to your gear, so you can quickly deal with any changes during the trip. You will also be able to identify and address any issues earlier before the trek like broken zippers, leaking water bottles, or malfunctioning electronics.